Former Arsenal and France left-back Gaël Clichy has joined presenter Wayne for a wide-ranging World Cup podcast, tackling some of the most talked-about topics in international football — from England's chances in the tournament to the fierce debate surrounding Jordan Henderson's selection.

Clichy delivered a passionate defence of Kylian Mbappé, drawing comparisons to one of football's all-time greats. He also issued a stark warning: football has a habit of failing to appreciate its finest talents until they are no longer playing at the highest level.

Inside France's infamous 2010 World Cup

One of the most compelling moments of the conversation came when Clichy offered a first-hand account of what really happened inside the France camp during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa — one of the most turbulent episodes in the history of Les Bleus. France's squad was consumed by internal conflict that tournament, culminating in a player strike and the team's humiliating group-stage exit.

Clichy, who was part of that squad, gave his perspective on the truth behind the controversy and spoke candidly about the pressures and divisions that tore the group apart from within.

The Henderson selection row

The podcast also revisited the contentious decision to select Jordan Henderson, a topic that divided opinion sharply among supporters and pundits alike. Clichy weighed in on the debate, addressing the considerations that go into squad selection at major tournaments and how decisions of that nature can shape a team's entire campaign.

Modern defenders and England's prospects

Clichy — who spent years operating at the top level of European club football — also turned his attention to the challenges facing modern defenders, arguing that the position is becoming increasingly difficult in today's game.

On England's prospects heading into the tournament, Clichy offered his assessment alongside predictions, dark horses to watch, and his pick for who could ultimately lift the trophy.

The full episode is available on BBC Sounds.